Rustic Elements in Today's Design

Granite and natural stone is not new as a countertop surface, but continues to be in high demand.  Most of today's consumers are looking for that one of a kind stone or something with an "other than" polished finish.  The fabricators are responding and finding rare and extremely beautiful stone as well as offering many different finishes on the surface.  Honed and leathered are two we recommend quite often.  Although it may take away some of the color and depth of the stone, it gives it a more casual look.



Stones of many shapes, sizes and colors are entering the baths as shower floors and features.  These are typically true pebbles, either full round or cut flat set on a mesh backer.  This application appeals not only to our out doorsie side, but the sense that we are at the spa and relaxing in a hot steamy shower.  Now if we could only design in the personal masseuse.

Petoskey stones for hardware, backsplash features or inset into any tile application, rings true to our love of state.  Combine this with hardware that might be shaped like twigs or pine cones and you know that you live up north.


For the more contemporary heart, glasses or tile with lineal movement that looks like grass is very popular.  Using glass that has grass or straw sandwiched between 2 panes as a room divider is a great approach to a clean, yet earthy design.


And most popular, has been flooring that looks like old barn or driftwood.  The organic gray tone of this wood lends so well with the current color trend, yet reminds us of a simpler life style.  One that we all strive to live in our beautiful area.